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Still relevant parts of the most recent emailed circulars are reproduced below, along with a developing Draft of the next, but check out the Diary for full listings.
Circulars dated:   24/4/14   15/4/14

An email circulation list with currently over 1500 contacts provides regular information on folk events across southern Devon roughly within a 30 mile radius as the crow flies of Totnes. The e-circulars are sent on a regular basis, usually one every 7-14 days, not more than one per week apart from exceptional circumstances (and never with any attachments).

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Draft Next Circular

date next

DRAFT NEXT Harberton Folk Circular - ??day ?? May 2014
Only a selection of events follows below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

text

Over the border: Brief news from Cornwall
1) The monthly Cross House Inn sessions at Metherell are in recess until September.
2) Bodmin Folk Club regrettably has no permanent home at present. Check www.bodminfolk.co.uk for interim venue(s).

More in brief - Selection only - Full Diary listings and details on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
Saturday 26 April - Jenna Witts & Amy Newton - George Hotel, South Molton
Sunday 27 April - Trade Winds - Tradesmans Arms, Scoriton nr Buckfastleigh
Sold out Friday 9 May - Chris Wood - Otterton Mill
Cancelled 9-11 May - Crediton Folk Weekend
Sunday 11 May - Paul Downes & Phil Beer - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham
Thursday 15 May - Steve Knightley - River Cottage, Trinity Hill Road, Axminster
Friday 16 May - Ruarri Joseph - Barrel House, Totnes
Saturday 17 May - Urban Folk Quartet - South Devon Arts Centre, Totnes
Sunday 18 May - Steve Knightley - Lympstone Village Hall
Sunday 18 May – New Rope String Band - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton
Friday 23 May - Acoustic Strawbs - Live At Plainmoor, Torquay United Football Ground
Saturday 31 May - Belshazzar’s Feast - St Mary's Church, Throwleigh, NE Dartmoor
Thursday 26 June - Folk at the Flavel: Richard Digance - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth

John Culf
johnculf@harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
All information is given in good faith but no responsibility can be accepted for its accuracy. Do check with the organiser before setting out on a long journey.

Recent Circulars

24/4/14

Harberton Folk Circular - Thursday 24 April 2014
A note about what these circulars include: usually all known - by me - events (newly notified or reminders) for the next fortnight or so, followed by more newly notified events, sometime a long way into the future, the idea being that you make diary notes of favourites for yourself. There will also be a selection of reminders for events further ahead, either because an organiser/venue has asked me to give a reminder, or because I feel like it. The full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings (and relevant parts of recent circulars) can always be found on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

24-26 April 2014 - Tuckers Maltings Beer Festival - Newton Abbot
Entertainment includes Nicky Swann (Sat 26th afternoon) and State Of Undress (Sat 26th early evening). Details www.edwintucker.co.uk/beer-festival/2014-22/#.Ux8Jec7zv6d. [Ed.: I incorrectly said Sat 24th in the actual email.]

CANCELLED 25-27 April 2014 - Budleigh Guitar Festival - Budleigh Salterton
Contact: 01395 443419 or 07891 663044. Email: info@gypsymusicpromotions.co.uk.

Friday 25 April 2014 8pm - Urban Folk Quartet - Calstock Hall, The Quay, Calstock PL18 9QA (map)
Four highly accomplished musicians (Joe Broughton, Paloma Trigás, Dan Walsh and Tom Chapman), a dozen instruments and four voices coming together to craft a knockout show of globally–influenced, electrifying acoustic music that has been taking the international folk scene by storm. Hitting the ground running in 2009, The UFQ’s trail has blazed across ten countries, igniting audiences worldwide with their high octane, genre-bending take on folk. 2014 brings further new direction as founding member Frank Moon steps out of touring life, passing the torch to banjo virtuoso, singer and guitarist Dan Walsh for what is set to be the band’s most adventurous year so far. Details www.calstockhall.com.

Friday 25 April 2014 9pm - Will McNicol - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Will began playing guitar at the age of six, and since then has gone on to become UK Acoustic Guitarist of the Year (2011) and a Fellow of Trinity College London for his playing and compositions. Will's music is influenced by styles from all over the world, and he has developed his own unique sound, with Celtic folk being the underlying inspiration behind a large majority of his own pieces. www.willmcnicol.co.uk. Tickets £4 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259361.

NEW Friday 25 April 2014 - Acoustic Haven: Le Juki , Cakes & Ale - St John's Church, Bridgetown, Totnes TQ9 5AD (map)
Le Juki - “Multi-instrumentalist trio, serving up a wonderfully diverse set featuring top-notch playing and idiosyncratic yet never less than intriguing songwriting across a range of genres, swapping effortlessly between guitar, percussion, brass and electronics” - Norman Miller, Bearded Magazine'. www.lejuki.co.uk. Cakes & Ale - a fantastic folk band, starting off the night, gravelly harmonies, fiddle, double bass, accordion and so much heart they will help jump-start the spring. Plus Kuki & the Bard. Tickets £8 adv (available from Sacks Wholefoods Totnes) or online www.wegottickets.com/event/269948, door £10. Doors 6.30pm, music from about 8pm.

Friday 25 April 2014 - Geoff Lakeman - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
A bit out of our usual coverage area, but a rare solo appearance by an old friend of Harberton Folk. Details www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk. Tel. 01769 572514.

Friday 25/26 April 2014 - 24 Hour Music Marathon - Live At Plainmoor, Torquay United Football Ground
A Charity Event in conjuction with Imprezza. Tickets £5, U12s £1. Covers entrance for the 24 hours so you can come and go as you please. A wide range of music from rock to folk so for a full listing contact Sharon on 07837 708406 or email sharoncox@torquayunited.com.Food and drinks available. Doors open Fri 25th at noon and close Sat 26th at noon. More details www.torquayunited.com/news/article/music-around-the-clock-1440821.aspx.

NEW Saturday 26 April 2014 7.30pm - Folk Comes to Town: Folk Café - All Saints Church Hall, Market Street, Okehampton
Visiting artists, Wren Music musicians and local support singers: Stew Simpson, David Faulkner, Moor Reason. Floor spots: sign up at the door. £5, teas & coffees available: BYO alcohol.
Saturday 19 July: Anne Lister, Rosa Rebecka, Jenny Norman.

NEW Saturday 26 April 2014 8pm - Old Gaffers Shanty Crew - Victoria Inn, Salcombe
The South Hams shanty crew's first regular visit of the year to Salcombe www.oldgaffers.co.uk.

UPDATED Dates & times changed
Saturdays 26 April & 3 May 2014 10am - Callington Furry Dance & Cornish Dance Workshops - Callington Town Hall, New Road, Callington, PL17 7BD
Prepare for Callington MayFest. If you are a musician come and play some Cornish music for dancing. Come and learn some Cornish dances. Rather like a do it yourself Nos Lowen. Dances lead by Carmen Hunt, music lead by Rosie Fierek. For more information email caveatcallington@gmail.com. Free adjacent car parking.

NEW Saturday 26 April 2014 2-5pm - Sing Out Saturday - St Matthew’s Hall, Lower Summerlands, Exeter
We will be singing Pop, Folk, Jazz, Gospel and World Music / Global Harmonies! Male and female, all ages welcome. Come and meet new friends. A great way to beat stress! Experienced and non-experienced singers equally welcome. All songs taught by ear. Simply have fun! Classes led by experienced vocal leader £12 and concs. Claire Anstee, call 01398 332781 or 07849 067724. Also 17 May 2014 10.45am-1.45pm.

Saturday 26 April 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Bedlam - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
To finish the season with a bang, a visit by some old friends. A vibrant and pulsating sound, blending traditional British, French and self-penned tunes with driving rhythms and powerful harmonies. Don't miss it! . Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152. www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs/index.htm.

Saturday 26 April 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh/Barn Dance with Mrs Crotty's Rumpus - Harberton Parish Hall, nr Totnes TQ9 7SE (map)
Caller Ken Hudson. Harberton Cricket Club fundraiser towards a more reliable water supply to their new pavilion. Tickets £8 adult, £4 U18. Licensed bar and BBQ. Tickets from Angus Ogilvy-Stuart 01803 411620.

Saturday 26 April 2014 7.30pm - An evening with Matt Harvey & Jim Causley - South Brent Village Hall, Station Approach TQ10 9AQ (map)
A South Brent Folk Festival event: Matt Harvey is a well-known writer and poet. Devon folk singer Jim Causley has been involved with the local folk from an early age. He is renowned for his warm, rich and mature singing voice (quoted as being akin to the fruitiest of real ales!) his natural gift for interpreting song and his wry and cheeky stage presence. He has recorded a number of CDs most recently ‘Cypress Well’ - song settings of poems by his ancestor Charles Causley and has been a nominee for BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Reel Ale bar. Tickets £10 adv from artworks www.artworksouthbrent.co.uk or £12 door. Information: Eileen McKee tel 01364 73699 email: eileen.southbrentfolk@gmail.com. One of a number of events organised throughout the year to support the South Brent Folk Festival (July 11/12 2014).

Sunday 27 April 2014 7.45pm - Sarah McQuaid - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
A superbly polished performer, Sarah is a wonderful singer whose material reflects her cosmopolitan background (Spanish father, American mother, dual Irish/American citizenship). She is a highly accomplished songwriter/guitarist, who interprets an eclectic mix of songs and powerful, original material. Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Sunday 27 April 2014 7pm - Coco & The Butterfields - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
A truly colourful, energetic and crowd-stamping act to be reckoned with, featuring beatboxer EupheX and performing their own unique fusion of Folk, Pop and Hip Hop, or “Fip Fok” to their fans. Within a year CATB had earnt themselves the title of the UK’s best unsigned act, (winners of Live and Unsigned 2012) collecting several more song writing awards, 250,000 YouTube hits and shared a stage with internationally renowned artists King Charles, Bastille and The Pogues. The ultimate eclectic collective, CATB find extraordinary musical integrity and balance in an ensemble of exquisite charm and quirk. Tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/257696. No bar, BYO drinks.

Monday 28 April 2014 8pm - The Fureys & Davey Arthur - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Renowned for their hit songs 'I will love you', 'When you were sweet 16', 'The Green fields of France', 'The old man', 'Red rose café', 'From Clare to here', 'Her father didn't like me anyway', 'Leaving Nancy', 'Steal away' etc, the Fureys & Davey Arthur have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 36 years. They are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination. Their folk / middle of the road based songs and music has received standing ovations in some of the biggest concert halls in the world. Their emotive songs stir many emotions....tears and laughter, sadness and joy. A Fureys concert is always a night to remember. £18. Box office 01392 665938. www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14592

Monday 28 April 2014 8pm - Jim Moray Band - Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Jim Moray is one of the most consistently inventive musicians working in English traditional music today. Winner of five BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, after five ground-breaking albums he now finds himself at the forefront of a new folk revival in the UK, and hailed as a pivotal influence by a new generation of folk musicians. In 2013 he celebrated both 10 years since his landmark debut album Sweet England and the success of his 2012 career best Skulk. Now he brings material from his forthcoming album of traditional ballads out on the road for an evening of storytelling music at its best. “This new set shows him moving towards the mainstream, relying on his fine, distinctive voice rather than shock tactics… One of the folk scenes great originals” The Guardian. Booking details www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/jim-moray.

Tuesday 29 April 2014 8pm - Mick Ryan's WW1 Folk Opera: A Day's Work - Lympstone Village Hall, School Hill, Lympstone, Exmouth EX8 5JY (map)
Come and hear this folk opera set one hundred years ago to commemorate the Great War. With Mick Ryan, Paul Downes, Maggie Boyle, Heather Bradford, Matt Quinn, Greg Russell and Pete Morton. This is another opportunity to hear the team which takes the opera on UK tour following this preview. Currently they are in the studio making the final recording. £10, U16 £5. Tickets available from April 1 (yes really!). Phone 01395 272243 or 07516 322853. Full details www.lympstoneentertainments.co.uk/events/2014/a-days-work.php.

Tuesday 29 April 2014 8pm - Folk Club Extra: Chris Foster - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
This will be the third visit to the club from one of the English traditions finest guitar players and singers. Chris is a master of the art. See www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWtRpESIv30. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Tuesday 29 April 2014 - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - Exmouth Folk Club, Manor Hotel, Exmouth EX8 2AG (map)
Over the last year Phil Henry & Hannah Martin's reputation has grown and their new album has had rave reviews from the music industry. Phil & Hannah won the 2013 Spiral Earth Best Duo award and have now been nominated for Best Duo in the 2014 BBC 2 Folk Awards. www.philliphenryandhannahmartin.co.uk. Contact 01395 269232. Doors 8:15pm.

Friday 2 May 2014 8pm - Martyn Joseph - Village Hall, Station Road, Bow, nr Crediton EX17 6HU (map)
Martyn Joseph has been called “The Welsh Springsteen”, with shades of John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews as well – but he stands in his own right, with a reputation for giving what thousands have described as the best live music experience of their lives. Full details, ticketing etc. www.theheartofdevon.co.uk.

Friday 2 May 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh with WoRTS 'N ALL - Dolphin Hotel, Bovey Tracey
Caller Tom Addison. Tickets £5 on the door. Part of Grimspound Border Morris' third annual May Fest 2-4 May when Border Morris, Cotswold Morris and Clog dance sides  from around Devon and the south converge on Bovey Tracey for a weekend of Music, Dancing, and Fun. Saturday: Dancing 10.30am-4pm, at Riverside Inn, Cromwell Arms, Dolphin Hotel and Mill Marsh Park; May Fest Market: many stalls situated at Mill Marsh Park Bovey Tracey, Craft stalls, food stalls, even a beer tent, bigger and better every year 10.30am-4pm. Saturday night: Cromwell Arms all sides get together for a combined music session. Musicians welcome to come, young and old, all levels of ability. Great atmosphere last year, let’s make it even better. Sunday: Dancing from 11am at Cromwell Arms, Riverside Inn and Dolphin Hotel. 1.30-3.30pm all sides come together to dance at the Riverside Inn.

Friday 2 May 2014 - Mad Dog Mcrea - Barrel House, Totnes (map)
Mad Dog Mcrea raise hands, lift feet and start parties wherever they play with their dance-demanding recipe of folk, pop, rock, jazz and bluegrass. Whisking up whistles, fiddles and mandolins to spectacular and infectious effect, these musical magicians are synonymous not only with a damn good party but also with quality musicianship and the odd surprise. More details, bookings etc. www.barrelhousetotnes.co.uk/whats-on/mad-dog-mcrea.

Friday 2 May 2014 8pm - Josienne Clarke & Ben Walker – Upstairs @ Crown & Sceptre, 2 Petitor Road, St Marychurch, Torquay TQ1 4QA (map)
Nominated in two categories in the 2014 Radio 2 Folk Awards. Josienne’s jewel-like voice finds the nuance and melancholy in the simplest phrase and effortlessly sends it straight to your heart. Ben’s musical tact and mastery of the guitar provide the perfect setting and allow the song centre-stage. Their work together combines an exquisite command of their instruments with lyrics steeped in the tradition of English songwriting, and in ageless stories of love and loss. Expect spine-tingling vocals, great guitar work, quirky humour and a Sandy Denny tune or two. Tickets £10 adv from 01803 328290.

Saturday 3 May 2014 8pm - Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain - Riverside Leisure Centre, Exeter
Exeter Corn Exchange goes big! Due to the high demand for tickets for previous shows we're moving to the Riverside Leisure Centre for this concert. UKoGB is warm, entertaining and funny. This all-strumming, all-plucking, all singing ensemble is an unforgettable musical force. You may never think about music in the same way once you've been exposed to the Ukes. With their vast repertoire the players believe all genres of music are available for reinterpretation - as long as they are played on the ukulele. From Charlie Parker to the Sex Pistols through Johann Sebastian Bach, the Orchestra take you on a world tour with only hand luggage.... Box office 01392 665938. Details www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14928.

Saturday 3 May 2014 7.30pm - Nick Harper - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
Nick recently released his 8th studio album 'Riven'. An epic recording with legendary producer Tchad Blake at the helm. Nick has also found time to play on new recordings with Lana Del Rey, Newton Faulkner and Steven Wilson. "One of the finest guitarists of his generation, his soaring vocal range and propensity for epic song place him somewhere between Rufus Wainright and Jeff Buckley. Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/256919. No bar, BYO drinks.

Saturday 3 May 2014 7.30pm - The Simon & Garfunkel Story - Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Direct from London’s West End, award winning actor Dean Elliott (Buddy Holly in “Buddy -The Musical”) and a full cast of performers tell the compelling story of the greatest music duo of all time in this 50th Anniversary Celebration. Using both original photos and film footage, ‘The Simon and Garfunkel Story’ also features a full live band performing all their hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more. If you’re a fan of beautiful music then this is an evening not to be missed! www.thesimonandgarfunkelstory.com Booking details www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/the-simon-and-garfunkel-story.

NEW Sunday 4 May 2014 - Blackawton Festival of Wormcharming, Blackawton Beer Festival & Blackawton Music Festival
All free. Music will be in the grounds of the George Inn, only 5 miles from Dartmouth; various acts including Merrymouth  (three piece folk-orientated band featuring Ocean Colour Scene songwriter and vocalist Simon Fowler (guitar/vocals), Dan Sealey (guitar/vocals) & Adam Barry (piano/organ/vocals), about to tour the UK and release a new album www.merrymouth.net; Crooked Tempo - samba band; Nauti Buoys - local shanty band; plus Swamp Hogs, Phil Hickin. Wormcharming/Beer Festivals from noon (earlier if you want to worm charm!), music 1.45pm-6.15pm approx. Fancy dress (theme is the Great War) welcome. Admission free – collections in support of Devon Air Ambulance and other local charities.

Saturday 10 May 2014 7.30pm - Sea Shanty Evening with The Old Gaffers - Thurlestone Parish Hall TQ7 3LY
The Kingsbridge-based shanty crew will be in fine voice for this concert in support of The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. BYO supper and drink. Raffle. Coming with friends? Why not reserve a table. Tickets £12. Contact Vida Alexander 01548 561182.

UPDATED Saturday 10 May 2014 7.30pm - Ian Bruce & Ian Walker - Smugglers Story, Brixham Harbourside
Featuring the internationally acclaimed and hugely talented Scottish duo, with special guests Maggie Duffy and Mike Weed. Concert takes place in the new inhouse chapel - an intimate space holding just 45 people. Some tickets have already been reserved so please do book early. Cafe / restaurant will be open before concert and during interval for soft drinks and snacks. The two Ian's don't often get this far south so this is likely to be the last time you get to see them for a while, in fact Maggie and Mike were special guests the last time Ian Bruce came to the south west and that was 5 years ago! Tickets £9 each, only available from Maggie on 01803 855961. Doors 7pm. A few tickets left, none available on the door.

Saturday 10 May 2014 7-10pm - Piece of Rough Ceilidh - St Thomas Church Hall, Cowick St, Exeter, Devon, EX2 9BQ (map)
Car parking available. £5 adults £2.50 child. Pasty and soft drink included, BYO alcoholic drink. Tickets available from Georgina 07950 989916.

NEW Sunday 11 May 2014 7.30pm - Spring Dance - Moose Hall, Bowden Hill, Crediton EX17 3EJ
Dance to Balkan & Gypsy music with Steve Tyler & Katie Marchant playing: hurdy gurdy, mandolin,bagpipes, shawm, voice etc. Dances led by Kushuma Holyoak and Fiona Parr. Cost: £7. BYO drink for the break. More information from Fiona 01626 821110 or Kushuma 01837 82001.

NEW Thursday 15 May 2014 7.30pm - Jim Causley & Lukas Drinkwater - Brixham Theatre, TQ5 8TA (map)
Jim (male singer of the year, Spiral Earth Awards, 2014. Top 10 Folk Album of 2013. The Telegraph) and Lukas present 'The Poetry of Charles Causley '. Celebrating the tenth anniversary of the death of Jim's relation, the famous Cornish poet. All tickets £12. Call 01803 858394. www.batsweb.org.uk.

NEW 16-18 May 2014 - Dart Music Festival - Dartmouth
Mostly free, largely outdoor, multi-genre festival www.dartmusicfestival.co.uk. Line-up includes Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin 17/5. Martha Tilston, Taiko Journey, Torbay Folk Choir, Wren Music, Nauti Bouys. Download the full programme for £4 from the website.

NEW Saturday 17 May 2014 7.30pm - Two A Cappella Choirs in Concert - St Mathias Church, Babbacombe Road, Torquay TQ1 1HW
The 'Lost Sound Chorus' bring you beautiful harmonies and an innovative programme with a strong folk emphasis www.thelostsoundchorus.co.uk. 'Yours in Harmony' are a sensational all female Barbershop choir twice winners of the Torbay festival www.yoursinharmony.co.uk. Together they will provide a memorable evening's entertainment. Tickets £8 on door, or adv from www.ticketsource.co.uk/event/55973.

NEW Friday 23 May 2014 7.30pm - Wren presents: James Findlay with Solarference - Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter EX2 4AZ (map)
James comes from a family of folk singers and his enthusiasm lies firmly within the English tradition. He is particularly passionate about songs from his home counties of Dorset, Somerset and Devon. He couples this with an extensive repertoire and love for song that shows through his knowledge and understanding of the material. "Bl**dy h*ll, what a voice! This was my first thought as he launched into his songs. He’s warmly charismatic with that sparkle of personality that draws a crowd along with him." - Jon Boden. Award-winning folktronica duo Solarference: a genre-defying mix of electronics and traditional folk song, a warm yet spiky sound with an intense live energy - powerful resonant songs come to life in epic and intimate sonic worlds. Ticketing details etc. www.cygnettheatre.co.uk/blog/2011/02/01/james-findley.

NEW 23-30 May 2014 - Exmouth Festival
Multi-genre festival including a significant folk element (including David Harbottle & Freya Jonas, The Billycocks, The O'Marleys, Sma Green & The Midnight Heist, Jim Causley, Fiddler's Folly, Jess McAllister, Lazibyrd, Martin Weller, Plastic Paddys. See www.exmouthfestival.org.uk for programme details in a page viewer, or click here to download a full festival programme (15MB PDF), or click here to download a 2-page summary programme (1MB PDF).

NEW Saturday 24 May 2014 - West Country Traditions Day - The Strand, Exmouth
As a new addition to the Exmouth Festival programme, The Exmouth Shanty Men are hosting a packed afternoon (until 6pm) of shanties, dancing, military music and other traditional activities in The Strand. After the Town Criers' Competition at 11am by shanty crews including The Old Gaffers, Wareham Whalers, Mariners Away and Castletown. Beltane Border Morris side will be dancing and also contributing are the Royal Marines Band & Exmouth Folk Dance Club. Plus all the fun of the fair. All free of charge but buckets for donations in support of the Exmouth Festival will be in evidence. www.exmouthfestival.org.uk. Added venues, The Grapevine and Spoken, which will feature, folk groups, accordion group, bell ringers. After show party, for those left standing at The Bicton Inn, music jam and shanties.

25-31 May 2014 - John Jones & The Reluctant Ramblers: Two Moors, Two Seas
The latest in the acclaimed series of walking tours with Oysterband's John Jones: a week of music and walks, open to all. Full details, ticketing where applicable etc. www.j-rr.org/two-moors-two-seas-2014-walking-tour-2. Some great lunchtime pub locations too. Summary:
Sunday 25 May: Exmoor walk, then on stage at Barnstaple's North Devon Beer Festival
Monday 26 May: Barnstaple - Bideford - Gt. Torrington, show at Plough Arts Centre
Tuesday 27 May: Tarka Trail, evening gig at Tally Ho Inn, Hatherleigh
Wednesday 28 May: Tarka Trail, then set from the band plus session and ceilidh at Drewe Arms, Drewsteignton
Thursday 29 May: Two Moors Way to Holne, evening show at Barrel House, Totnes
Friday 30 May: Holne to Ivybridge, whole day on the Moor, weather permitting, evening show at The Watermark, Ivybridge
Saturday 31 May: Erme-Plym Trail and SW Coast Path to Noss Mayo, with a closing session at The Swan Inn, Noss Mayo.

NEW Tuesday 27 May 2014 7pm - Shanty Cruise - River Exe from Exmouth
With thanks to the generosity of Stuart Line Cruises who give all the ticket money received to the Exmouth Festival of which this cruise is a part, The Exmouth Shanty Men will once again be gliding gently on 'The Pride of Exmouth' up the stunning Exe estuary and singing as we go. Departing Exmouth Docks 7pm, returning around 9.30pm. Always popular so book early! Bookings and details: www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk/timetable or phone 01395 222144. Festival information: www.exmouthfestival.org.uk.

NEW 13-15 June 2014 - Moor Merriment: A Weekend of Dartmoor Music & Dance - Lustleigh
Friday evening concert with Jim Causley, Martin & Shan Graebe. Saturday: Day of Dance with Beltane, Cogs and Wheels, Heather and Gorse, and Tinners. Dartmoor Broom and Step Dancing; evening ceilidh with the Dartmoor Pixie Band. Sunday: early evening concert. 'The Dartmoor Cantata' and 'Giant Bolster of Haytor' Lustleigh Village Choir, Westerleigh Orchestra, children's choirs from Bovey Tracey and Moretonhampstead. Tickets available now, see www.moormerriment.info. Further information from Alexa Mason 01647 277498.

NEW 20-22 June 2014 - 16th Teignmouth Folk Festival
Tickets now on sale, see www.teignmouthfolk.co.uk for a booking form or contact Anne Gill 01803 290427 or email annemgill@tiscali.co.uk.
Festival concerts at the Carlton Theatre: Friday night - Vin Garbutt with support Skyhook; Saturday night - The Gavin Davenport Band with support Paul Downes; Sunday afternoon - The Martyn Wyndham-Read Band with support Barron & Brady. Other artists appearing at the festival - The City of Plymouth Pipe Band, The Old Gaffers, Halfway Harmony, Flash Company, Mrs. Midnight, Clive Sheard, Leggy Blonde and numerous dance sides.

NEW Saturday 28 June 2014 - Wren Fiddle Day (workshops & concert) - Fairplace Church, Okehampton EX20 1DT
with Rob Harbron & Miranda Rutter (who lead the English Acoustic Collective Summer School and are fine performers, composers and interpreters of traditional music) and Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll (highly respected musicians and workshop leaders from North Devon). Workshops for fiddle and viola 10am-1pm, workshops all acoustic instruments 2-5pm. Evening concert 7.30-9.30pm. This day devoted to fiddle playing will challenge and inspire you! Learn new techniques and repertoire with expert tuition and advice from renowned musicians. A separate beginners group is also held for those new to the instrument. We can even lend you an instrument if you'd like to try one for the first time (please book in advance). Full ticketing details at www.wrenmusic.co.uk or phone 01837 53754, early bird prices before June 14.

NEW Saturday 11 October 2014 7.30pm – The Carrivick Sisters – Charleton Village Hall, Kingsbridge TQ7 2AJ
Identical twin sisters Charlotte and Laura have grown up playing and writing music together. Their unique style shows their strong bluegrass influences without obscuring their English roots. With tight harmonies that only siblings can achieve, they perform their original songs on guitar, fiddle, mandolin, dobro and clawhammer banjo. They have performed both in the UK and internationally. Fundraiser by Friends of Prawle Point for National Coastwatch. Tickets available later in the year. Contact: Jane Payne email jane[at]paynes.org.uk.

NEW 24-26 October 2014 - Baring Gould Folk Weekend - Okehampton
Held in a range of comfortable venues all in the centre of the old market town. Artists include: Tickled Pink, Phil Beer, James Findlay, Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman, Jon & Alfie, Lester Simpson and the Wren Band. As well as the strong programme of concerts and dances, you can sing with the Festival Choir or play with Festival Orchestra. On the Saturday night there is a Feast with hog roast or vegetarian options and even more music and song, and Sunday features the annual Prize Conker Competition. Weekend tickets £30 buy, 3 get 1 free! www.baring-gould.co.uk or call 01837 53754.

NEW 27-31 October 2014 - Baring-Gould Folk Song School - Okehampton
Led by Wren Music's Director Paul Wilson with the Wren team of Sarah Owen and Rosa Rebecka, Marilyn Tucker and David Faulkner; visiting tutor Janet Russell . Tuition in large and small groups, as well as one-to-one. You will have the opportunity to plan your own week, balancing your own programme from the three main strands: 1. Developing Technique warming up; finding your own voice; breathing; pitching; phrasing; ornamentation; creating your own harmonies. 2. Developing Repertoire searching the archive; collation of text and tunes; putting tunes to words (and vice versa); arranging; using harmony; accompaniment. 3. Developing Performance Skills opportunities to sing away from the clubs; using PA systems; building confidence; overcoming nerves; relaxation; telling the story. The 2014 fee is £300 if paid in full before 30 September, £350 thereafter (if any places still available). www.baring-gould.co.uk 01837 53754.

A publication recommended by a Harberton Folk subscriber
"Singing from the Floor: A History of British Folk Clubs by JP Bean (see www.amazon.co.uk/Singing-Floor-History-British-Clubs/dp/0571305458) (available as paperback or for Kindle). It has a few notable omissions but it is a very familiar evocation of the time. JR"

Not folk (by any stretch of the imagination)...
but just occasionally I will include the odd item or two of 'crossover' interest, and today I actually have three, the first submitted by a good friend of Harberton Folk, the second is one of my own, and the third comes from John Summerscales whose website 'Music in and Around Plymouth' at www.summerscales.me.uk/music.htm lists music events of all genres:
1) ~ Friday 9 May 2014 8pm - Barn Grooves featuring the Mike Westbrook Big Band - National Trust Cotehele Barn Restaurant, nr Saltash
A very special evening when the acclaimed composer and band leader Mike Westbrook leads his 20 piece big band in 'Rossini Re-Loaded': jazz and rock variations on the operas of Rossini. This was the first jazz work to be featured in the BBC Proms at the Albert Hall. Tapas and bar available. £20 on 0844 249 1895 or http://tinyurl.com/cotehele-westbrook.
2) ~ Saturday 10 May 2014 - The Crazy World of Arthur Brown - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Celebrating 45 years of the massive worldwide hit 'Fire' with a brand new live show including the legendary fire helmet and rock n roll theatricals. Details www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!the-crazy-world-of-arthur-brown/cr8v. Arthur Brown's website has a gig archive, including an all-nighter, midnight to 6am, at the Lyceum in The Strand, London on 6th March 1970, tickets 20 shillings! I was there!website
3) ~ Two free open-air concerts by the full Philharmonia Orchestra: Plymouth and Torquay
Sunday 11 May (Armada Way, Plymouth) & Sunday 8 June (Torre Abbey, Torquay), both 5-6pm,
Full details see www.iorchestra.co.uk/live.

15/4/14

Harberton Folk Circular - Tuesday 15 April 2014
I've had very limited time available so only the most urgent updates are included tonight (and they were received with plenty of notice). Otherwise, the listing below includes reminders for all events I know of over the next week and a half or so. More, and longer-term, updates will hopefully follow next week. The full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

Richie's listings for live music in April in East Devon
are available here now: www.harbertonfolk.co.uk/richie.htm

Hazel Morris Sticks Available
After a major coppicing operation a few months ago, I can supply 'from stock' a couple of dozen fairly substantial (inch-and-a-quarter to inch-and-a-half approx. diameter) stripped hazel morris sticks, and/or a similar quantity of thinner stripped hazel sticks, all up to about 32/33 inch length. When they're gone, they're gone until next winter. First come first served. Buyer collects (from Harberton). Please reply to this email if interested.

NEW Saturday 10 May 2014 7-10pm - Wren Music Ceilidh - St Thomas Church Hall, Cowick St, Exeter, Devon, EX4 1AP (map)
Car parking available. £5 adults £2.50 child. Pasty and soft drink included, BYO alcoholic drink. Tickets available from Georgina 07950 989916

NEW Saturday 24 May 2014 7.30pm - Malborough 2014 Scarecrow Trail Family Ceilidh - Malborough Village Hall nr Kingsbridge
With the Dawntreader Ceilidh Band. Evening starts 7pm, with food at 8pm. Tickets: adult £8, U16 £5, family (2+2) £20 available from Malborough Post Office or call 01548 562058.

NEW Saturday 31 May 2014 7.30pm - Belshazzar’s Feast - St Mary's Church, Throwleigh, NE Dartmoor EX20 2HU (area map)
The Friends of Throwleigh Church are pleased to announce that the folk duo Paul Hutchinson (accordion) and Paul Sartin (oboe, violin and vocals) will be making use of the wonderful acoustics of the ancient church building (zoomed-in map). “They play like no-one else you've ever heard. Their music is breathtaking and wickedly inventive and the between-tunes interchange as intelligent and hilarious as the music.” BBC Radio 2 Mike Harding. www.belshazzarsfeast.com. Book tickets in advance, £12 adult, £6 U17, call 01647 231051 or email: enquiries[at]dhatton.plus.com

NEW Show of Hands' only 2014 tour just announced
Fri/Sat 5/6 December 2014 7.30pm - Show of Hands - Exmouth Pavilion, The Esplanade, Exmouth EX8 2AZ
The only tour of the year, last two dates, and the only gigs in our coverage area (nearest others are Barnstaple and Yeovil). Enjoy a full evening of Show of Hands with Miranda Sykes - two sets with no support. See www.showofhands.co.uk for details.

NEW Callington Mayfest - Workshops and Events, various dates
Fridays 4 / 25 April, 2 May 2014 7.30-9.30pm - Callington Furry Dance & Cornish Dance Workshops - Callington Town Hall, New Road, Callington, PL17 7BD
Prepare for Callington MayFest. If you are a musician come and play some Cornish music for dancing. Come and learn some Cornish dances. Rather like a do it yourself Nos Lowen. Dances lead by Carmen Hunt, music lead by Rosie Fierek. For more information email caveatcallington@gmail.com. Free adjacent car parking.
Saturday 10 May 2014 1pm - Callington Mayfest
Procession followed by dancing in and around town until 4pm, with Breton dancers, Plymouth Morris Men, Plymouth Maids, Wreckers Border Morris, Cornish dance group Hevva, dancers from Callington College with the Maypole street dance fusion. Website http://callingtoncave.weebly.com. For more information email caveatcallington@gmail.com.
Saturday 10 May - Evening dance with Dalla at Callington Town Hall, New Road, Callington, PL17 7BD

NEW Some folk information sources for neighbouring areas
(Unfortunately I'm not aware of general folk information resource for Cornwall - Does anyone else know of anything?)
Shammick Acoustic - Includes website www.shammickacoustic.org.uk listings of regular and special events in North Devon and West Somerset.
Sadfolk - Comprehensive coverage of folk events in Somerset & Dorset - website www.sadfolk.co.uk and associated weekly email udpates.
Acoustic Calendar for Wessex - Monthly calendar with email updates of folk clubs, singarounds, acoustic sessions & open mic (i.e. not concerts etc.); see www.sanchobramble.weebly.com for details.
And included by special request of the venue, a mention for the
Electric Palace in Bridport - in case you fancy venturing for a day out further along the Jurassic Coast - www.electricpalace.org.uk - presenting some quality folk concerts, some featuring an act's only West Country gig; current programme includes: 23/4 Moulettes; 30/4 Fureys & Davey Arthur; 2/5 Dave Swarbrick & Friends; 15/5 Bella Hardy; 31/5 Sam Lee & Friends

Friday 2 May - Martyn Joseph - Village Hall, Station Road, Bow, nr Crediton
Saturday 3 May - Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain - Riverside Leisure Centre, Exeter
Sunday 11 May - Paul Downes & Phil Beer - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham
Saturday 17 May - Urban Folk Quartet - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes
Sunday 18 May - Steve Knightley - Lympstone Village Hall, School Hill, Lympstone, Exmouth
Sunday 18 May – New Rope String Band - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton
Saturday 24 May - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot
25-31 May - John Jones & The Reluctant Ramblers: Two Moors, Two Seas
Thursday 26 June - Folk at the Flavel: Richard Digance - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth
Sunday 6 July – The Home Service - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton
Friday 18 July - Coope, Boyes & Simpson - Milverton Music, Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton
Thursday 24 July - Peter Knight's Gigspanner - Otterton Mill
Friday 5 September - James Taylor - Plymouth Pavilions
Sunday 14 September - Altan - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton
Sunday 28 September - Dervish - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton
Saturday 4 October - Jackie Oates - South Brent Village Hall
Saturday 25 October - Seth Lakeman - Theatre Royal, Plymouth
Sunday 16 November - Peter Knight's Gigspanner - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham
Saturday 16 November - Bellowhead - Plymouth Pavilions
Friday 21 November - Joan Armatrading - Exeter Corn Exchange

Feature: Concerts at Bow Village Hall (nr Crediton), Station Road, Bow EX17 6HU (map)
Contact 01363 82379. Full details, ticketing etc. www.theheartofdevon.co.uk.
Friday 2 May 2014 8pm - Martyn Joseph
Martyn Joseph has been called “The Welsh Springsteen”, with shades of John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews as well – but he stands in his own right, with a reputation for giving what thousands have described as the best live music experience of their lives.
Saturday 13 September 2014 8pm - Phil Beer solo
As one half of Show Of Hands Phil has gained a huge following and is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best known as a top flight fiddler and plays in the all-star line-up, Feast of Fiddles. But his skills don’t stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals.

Session News
1) Celtic music session at The Walkhampton Inn (Yelverton/Dousland area) Devon. 2nd Sunday each month from 8pm.
2) Monday 17 March 2014 7pm - St Patrick's Night Session - Seymour Arms, 10 Seymour Street, Plymouth PL4 8DT
Following on from the previous excellent Seymour Sessions, this one will be a Session Plus. The early part of the evening (up until about 9.30pm-ish) will be an acoustic come-all-ye, and then we will ramp things up a notch or two with some amplified sets from Les & Andy, and Scraping The Barrel (Nik, Nigel, Jake, and David).

Feature: Milverton Music Club
Somewhat distant but perhaps of interest to those in the NW of our coverage area, the Club has regular open mic sessions on the 1st Friday of every month except August, plus occasional guest nights, and meets at the Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU (N of Wellington) www.milvertonmusic.co.uk/page2.html. 2014 guest nights:
Friday 16 May - Eliza Gilkyson
Friday 18 July - Coope, Boyes & Simpson
Friday 17 October - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

On Exeter's Phonic FM 106.8 and online www.phonic.fm Mondays 6-8pm
Roots and Shoots with Martin Henning
The best in global and local music. Frequent live sessions from talented local and visiting musicians. See the show’s website http://rootsandshootsdevon.blogspot.co.uk. 1st, 3rd and 5th Mondays of each month | Jan 20 | Feb 3, 17 | Mar 3, 17, 31 | etc.
Common Ground with Martin Hodge - new in 2014
Exploring the rich folk music, songs and traditions of the West Country and the rest of the UK with occasional forays abroad. With informative and entertaining guests including some live music. Contact Martin via www.facebook.com/groups/commongroundonphonicfm/?fref=ts or email martin@phonic.fm. 2nd Monday of each month | Feb 10 | Mar 10 | etx.
Shenanigans with Karen and Kat
Shenanigans is presented by two chin-wagging musos with a weakness for caffeine. We will be playing indie, alternative, new wave and folk….finding those tracks you might not have heard but we know you will love! 4th Monday of each month | Jan 27 | Feb 24 | Mar 24 | etc.

Artists sought for The Feast of St James Festival in Tiverton on 19 July 2014
We are looking for artists based on a traditional theme - hopefully medieval music? but also interested in more upbeat musicians as well which may be loosely medieval in context. We have a day time event and an evening event also. I am open to ideas and would look forward to any contacts who may be of interest at this stage. I am looking for: Morris dancers, individual street folk musician(s), bands? Please contact me, reference Tiverton Town Team: Dawn Chilcott, Tiverton Town Team Co-ordinator, Challen House, 17 The Avenue, Tiverton, Devon EX16 4HP tel. 01884 242212 / 07989 973301, email dawnchilcott[at]btconnect.com.

Words & Music for Good Causes
A new spoken-word performance group based in South Devon would love to hear from any traditional players/singers who might be interested in collaborating on occasional projects/events for selected charities (a recent example involved musicians and readers presenting international poetry for Amnesty). Please contact Chris Waters on: waterschris@live.com.

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Session News
Totnes: Bay Horse Inn, 8 Cistern Street TQ9 5SP (01803 862088, www.bayhorsetotnes.com)
Traditional Open Session: First & third Mondays of every month, 8.45pm – 11pm. Players and singers welcome.
Traditional Singing Session: Second & fourth Tuesdays of the month, 8.45 - 11pm. Exploring British folk.
Eli’s Open Session: Every Thursday, 8.45 - 11pm. Singer/songwriters, musicians, percussionists – all welcome.
Bluegrass Session: Second Sunday each Month, 8.30pm - 11pm. Players welcome.

New Venue for 2014: Starz Bar in Exeter - Exeter Folk Project
Gigs start in the New Year, downstairs in the lounge bar, all seated (55-60 seats). More at www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject. Location: 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter, EX4 3ET. The line-up to date: 23/1/14 Blair Dumlop; 20/2/14 Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar; 27/3/14 O'Hooley & Tidow

Crabshell Records Kingsbridge
We don't normally advertise this sort of thing, but Neil does a great job with Kingsbridge-based Crabshell Records ("Any money raised over expenses will be entirely dedicated to promoting live music of the tradition in and around Kingsbridge") , mostly involving local South Devon performers including Rumpus, The Old Gaffers, and The Storm, or his own previous events. See www.flaxey-green.co.uk/Pages/Publications.html for the lastest info (and also www.shamstrad.co.uk/crabshellrecords.htm).

Session news
The first Malborough Open Mike at the Royal Oak will be on November 28th, no Open Mike in December but then regularly on the 4th Thursday of the month from January 2014. All styles of music welcome. Come along and play/sing or listen.9pm start but come a little earlier if you want to play or phone Mahrey/Phil on 01548 853593.
The Malborough Jam Session (all styles of music from folk to blues and rock, join in or listen) continues on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, and there will be a festive feel to the music on 11th December. 8.30pm start.
For more info on either of these contact Mahrey/Phil on 01548 853593 or Julia/Howard on 01803 864674. For the Royal Oak contact 01548 561481.
More session news (extracted from Tony Watts' emailed Acoustic Calendar for Wessex updates, see www.sanchobramble.weebly.com, info reproduced in good faith, contact Tony - not me - with any feedback, or to join his email list)
New
Plymouth: The Crown & Anchor, 10-11 The Barbican PL1 2LS (01752 224572) - Every Tuesday, 8pm. Open mic.
RIP (i.e. discontinued)
Plymouth: Blue Peter Inn, 68 Pomphlett Road PL9 7BN (01752 941794) - First Thursday of the month. Mixed folk session.
The landlord is still willing to host musicians if anyone would like to get a session together.
Plymouth: The Dolphin, 14 The Barbican PL1 2LS (01752 660876, Martin: 01752 550768) - First Sunday of the month, 1pm till early evening. Music and song session.
Plymouth: Minerva Inn, 31 Looe Street PL4 0EA (01752 223047) - Open Mic: First Wednesday of the month, 8.30pm.
NB: The Thursday folk session is still alive and well.

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New 'South Devon Arts Centre' in Totnes
This brand new (a month ago) not-for-profit community arts venue (whose patrons and friends include Jools Holland, Bob Harris and Sir Richard Branson) already has a massive programme lined up of top-class music of many genres, comedy, cabaret, theatre etc. and all ticketing details can be found at www.southdevonarts.co.uk. SDAC is located at The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map) and has a maximum seated capacity of 190 (ground floor 110, gallery balcony 80), or 200 standing capacity ground floor. Plenty of free parking available close by. Licensed bar.
It's very difficult to categorise some performers, but here's a summary of the 'folkier' acts in the current published programme up to December:
22/11 Rue Royale; 23/11 Hayseed Dixie; 14/12 Mad Dog Mcrea - something for all tastes there! They're also all in the www.harbertonfolk.co.uk website Diary, with links to music/video samples in most cases.

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Buckfastleigh Mixed Voice A Cappella Choir - Recruiting
‘The Lost Sound’ is a small (24 singers), mixed voice, a cappella choir based in Buckfastleigh with a strong folk element. They have received an extremely warm response to their performances throughout 2012, especially from The Dart Music festival and Night of 1000 voices at Exeter Cathedral. They are looking to take on new singers in the Alto and Female tenor sections who have some harmony experience and who can learn quickly. For more info see www.singingandbreathing.co.uk or call Sandra on 01364 643105.

North Devon/West Somerset music listings - Listings of regular and special music events for the above area can always be found at www.shammickacoustic.org.uk (then click on 'Local Events').

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North Devon/West Somerset music listings
Listings of regular and special music events for the above area can always be found at www.shammickacoustic.org.uk (then click on 'Local Events').

Note to (potential) contributors - and readers:
The frequency of these e-circulars varies anywhere from approx. weekly up to fortnightly, driven essentially by work and personal priorities. Therefore, to give your event the best possible chance of inclusion (unless I forget! - has happened very occasionally), try to get your information to me at least a month in advance, preferably using the standard format I employ for most entries - see below - and preferably with a max. length of 50 to 75 words. Otherwise I have to edit text down to a reasonable length, and editing takes time! A Myspace (or similar) web link for music samples is a good idea too.

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Folk news slightly further afield:
Somerset & Dorset (SADFOLK) folk events
A regular and comprehensive emailed listing is available through www.sadfolk.co.uk (Somerset and Dorset folk) for folk events in venues large and small in those two counties, some of which are not too far away from the Harberton Folk area. Steve who runs this has over 800 contacts on his list.
North Devon www.shammickacoustic.org.uk - website listings
...and not forgetting www.flaxey-green.co.uk (and www.devonfolk.co.uk) for further detailed Devon listings, including many regular pub sessions,  folk dance clubs and much more.

1-2-1 Melodeon Tuition
Ed Rennie, lead tutor with the Devon Squeezebox Foundation, is currently teaching melodeon to a number of people on a 1-2-1 basis at their homes. The advantage from the students' point of view is the courses are tailored to their needs and progress at their pace and they get to stay at home in the warm and dry and Ed does all the running about in the cold and dark! Ed has a number of students he visits once a month in the West Dartmoor/Plymouth area (Mary Tavy to Saltash). He has capacity to take on some more students in the area, so if you would be interested to learn the melodeon at home with Ed, give him a shout at devonsqueezebox@hotmail.co.uk. Melodeon hire also available.

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A few notes about these listings - what gets listed, what doesn't... etc.
The listings primarily include 'folk' events, mostly of a concert nature, also folk club guest nights, folk workshops, ceilidhs / barn dances etc.
'Folk' of course means many things to many people so that's partly why I also include limited coverage of some Americana, blues and other acoustic music events, but also partly because there are dedicated people/venues in the area putting on top-class performers in these fields - and they take the trouble to send me information. (The 'other musics' will generally have shorter entries and fewer repeats.)
My preferred length for entries is 50-75 words, 100 words max. This length restriction, combined with a 'selection of events only', means that the overall length of each e-circular does not become excessive (and unduly sleep-inducing!). The full open-ended Diary is always available on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.
If you're submitting stuff to me for inclusion, why not give a web link to online music samples? Most performers have them these days. And there's then a chance the reader will take a listen, perhaps like what they hear, and maybe even come to a gig they wouldn't have otherwise considered!
I don't include information about regular informal pub folk sessions or folk (social) dance club material - these areas are well covered by www.flaxey-green.co.uk and www.devonfolk.co.uk. - but I will list details of new sessions, for example.
The general distance qualifier has always been 'within 30 miles as the crow flies from Totnes' (covers a surprisingly wide range), although this does get stretched a little sometimes for items of potential wider South-West interest.
The e-circulars are sent to approx. 1400 folk-specific contacts (no telling of course how many fail to arrive for whatever reason, although I do my best to maintain the email list - several repeated rejections from the same address will result in that address being deleted)  The great majority of those contacts are within the above coverage area.
And please don't be offended if I occasionally forget - or even refuse - to include an item.
Keep enjoying the live music! - John Culf

New folk festival listing website
www.ukfolkfestivals.co.uk "tries to list almost every folk music festival in the UK" [and seems to do quite a good job]

More folk/roots music on local radio - Phonic FM (106.8 in Exeter; www.phonic.fm worldwide)
Martin Henning, Rich Cooke and Martin Hodge present 'Roots & Shoots' every Monday 6-8pm. They play folk/roots music from around the world and always include local music, often featuring live music - our next scheduled performers being Mad Dog McRea on Monday 10 May.

An 'interesting' email problem
Those of you who read my recent notes about the various problems I experience when sending these e-circulars may be interested/amused to see a (new) rejection message received from a recipient at a local educational establishment. I have highlighted the offending word in bold/red and added spaces so it's not rejected again. This word appeared in the item about Hayseed Dixie:
Microsoft Antigen for Exchange found a message matching a filter. The message is currently Identified.
Message: "hf21_30 080226"
Filter name: "KEYWORD= racial discrimination: h i l l b i l l y"
Sent from: "John Culf"

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A Virus Warning - but please do read this, unlike the usual hoaxes that circulate which are simply designed to clog up the email airwaves:
"There is a dangerous virus being passed around electronically, orally, and by hand. This virus is called Weary-Overload-Recreational-Killer (WORK). If you receive WORK from any of your colleagues, your boss, or anyone else via any means DO NOT TOUCH IT. This virus will wipe out your private life completely. If you should come into contact with WORK, put your jacket on and take two good friends to the nearest grocery store. Purchase the antidote known as Work-Isolating-Neutralizer-Extract (WINE) or Bothersome-Employer-Elimination-Rebooter (BEER). Take the antidote repeatedly until WORK has been completely eliminated from your system. You should forward this warning to 5 friends. If you do not have 5 friends, you have already been infected."

'Virus' warnings - Chain emails (e.g. petrol prices) - Please avoid them
With 1400+ email contacts, if there's junk going around I usually see quite a few examples of it. If you receive a chain email, such as those that warn of a terrible virus circulating which will destroy your hard disk, do please take a moment to check before forwarding it to your entire address book. Pick out a couple of salient words and put them into Google, e.g. "olympic torch email", and you'll soon see that they are invariably hoaxes, simply designed to further clog up email servers across the globe. And whilst possibly originally well intentioned, the petrol price emails doing the rounds have essentially been around since 1999 - see http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_gas_boycott_2006.htm and read the analysis/comments.

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Other interesting local music links
Plymouth Classical Music Concert Diary www.plyclassical.co.uk - Comprehensive month-by-month listings of all types of classical music in and around Plymouth, plus some jazz and folk, including Harberton Folk's events.
Plymouth Music Accord www.plymouthmusicaccord.co.uk - Registered Charity promoting the appreciation and performance of music in the Plymouth area. Members include local orchestras, bands, choirs, opera groups, etc. and many promoters and venues, and Plymouth Folk Festival (who have a brand new, smart website).
'Off topic' but we'll mention a couple of other local live music sources for different genres:
Totnes Early Music Society www.totnesearlymusic.org.uk - fairly self-explanatory

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